David Finn, an assistant football coach at a high school in Kentucky, faces a daunting health battle. More than two years ago doctors told him his kidneys were failing, and he now spends three days a week, four hours each session, on dialysis.
Faith and family fuel his perseverance
“At the age I was, it was horrifying. I was scared and nervous, but through prayer and my family, I just put my hard hat on and went straight in,” Finn said. The routine of treatment is physically and emotionally draining, yet he refuses to let it define him.
Finn is also a devoted father. “I’m trying to raise my son to be a strong, independent man. I don’t want him to ever see me stop pushing, so until I can’t push anymore, I’m going to push,” he explained. Balancing the demands of dialysis, coaching, and parenting is a constant challenge, but he strives to give each part of his life his best effort.
Football as an outlet and a second family
For Finn, the football field is more than a job; it is an escape and a source of purpose. “My coaching staff, those are my brothers,” he said. “Seeing them, seeing those kids, being at this school, what we’re accomplishing this year on the football field — it just makes my heart.” The camaraderie of the team and the progress of the players provide a vital boost during his treatment weeks.
His dedication extends beyond the sidelines. Finn remains on the bench, planning plays and mentoring his athletes, even on days when his own energy is low. “The most challenging part is spending my time between myself, my son and my football team, my other kids, trying to give them all of me that I can, but still trying to maintain life for myself,” he admitted.
Hope for a transplant
While awaiting a kidney transplant, Finn continues to lean on his faith, family, and the football community. He urges others facing hardship to keep moving forward. “Whatever you’re going through, it’s not over … just keep pushing,” he encouraged.
Finn also highlighted the importance of organ donation, directing readers to UC Health for free testing for living kidney donors: UC Health Living Kidney Donation.
Original reporting: 40/29 / KHBS (NW Arkansas) — read the source article.
